Description
World War I German Prussian M1895 Pickelhaube
This is a World War I–era German Prussian M1895 Pickelhaube, enlisted personnel model, constructed with a blackened leather shell and retaining its original Imperial fittings. Helmets of this pattern were issued to enlisted ranks and represent the standard prewar configuration used throughout the German Empire prior to the material changes mandated in 1915.
The helmet is marked “8B 1888,” an issue and depot marking typically found on Imperial-era headgear, indicating unit or battalion assignment and year of acceptance. Such markings add provenance and confirm period military issue. The leather shell remains well preserved for its age, showing expected patina while maintaining its overall form and rigidity.
This example retains its original brass fittings, including the spike assembly and base, consistent with the M1895 pattern, which continued to utilize polished brass rather than the gray steel fittings introduced later during wartime austerity measures. The front plate is the correct standard Prussian eagle.
Overall, the helmet presents as an honest and well-preserved example of an Imperial German enlisted Pickelhaube. Its combination of clear markings, intact brass hardware, makes it an excellent piece for collectors of Imperial German militaria, unit-identified headgear, or pre-1915 Pickelhauben. This helmet offers a tangible link to Germany’s prewar army and the early period of the First World War.
